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Autumn Beck Blackledge PLLC
127 S. Palafox, Suite 100, autumnblackledge.com
What inspired you to get started? I grew up in an entrepreneurial family, so I was eager to put my own shingle out doing what I love. Now that I own my own business, I really would never consider working for anyone again.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Every case in my practice is different. While I enjoy cases that use my knowledge base, I thrive on working hard to get the next case, the more complex issue or help another family with their family law issues. My clients keep me motivated.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a law firm practicing primarily in martial and family law issues. Families are complex, family law cases are stressful. We solve the problems that our clients wake up at 3 a.m. thinking about when it comes to family law issues.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Every day our goal is to help our clients solve problems, which resulted in some sort of family law litigation. Our continuous goal is to look for ways to heal families and individuals after traumatic family law cases. Always growing and meeting more client needs in a better way.
Answers by: Autumn Blackledge, Owner

Beyond Barre Pensacola
5022-A W. Fairfield Dr., beyondbarrepensacola.com
What inspired you to get started? We wanted to create a friendly, authentic, studio and community where people of all fitness levels would feel comfortable working out.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Teaching the power of the present moment in all of our classes has become the primary aim for the studio. Living in the present, combined with physical activity, opens the door for a profound mind/body transformation. Witnessing this transformation in our clients is what motivates us to keep going.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Beyond Barre Pensacola creates a space to laugh, sweat, strengthen, stretch, learn, inquire… and anyone can do it.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We have seen an increasing number of men in our power yoga and barre classes. I would like to see that number continue to grow. Both practices have so many benefits and are not limited to just one gender, age group or athletic type.
Answers by:Briana Knight, Instructor

Coastal Fitness Training
6057 Gulf Breeze Parkway, coastalfitnesstraining.com
What inspired you to get started? We started out as workout partners before we became business partners. As our love for fitness and helping others grew, we knew we had to dive in and help change as many lives possible.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our motivation comes from not only seeing the results of women on the outside but also seeing the increase in their confidence and overall love of life.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Coastal Fitness Training is a women’s only fitness center that provides a personal training feel in a group fitness atmosphere. We are a tribe of women all striving to hit the same goal of healthier lives.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Our next goal is to bring Coastal Fitness Training into many other communities. We want to be as big as God wants us to be.
Answers by: Jaid Slaughter and Paula Laurendine, Owners

Framing By Design
4718 N. W. St., framingbydesignpensacola.com
What inspired you to get started? I was an art major with a minor in business. My final year of college I started working for a company in Mobile, Ala. One year after starting, the company opened this store in Pensacola. I moved with them then bought his business in Aug. 1996.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Being able to help individuals make their memories and artwork look as good as possible, watching their faces light up when they pick up the finished framed piece. Hearing them say how grateful they are that we know what we are doing.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a staff of certified picture framers who know how to take care of your artwork and precious memories. We help you make the right choices, whether it is something you want to spend very little money or it is something of value (monetary or sentimental).
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? To continue to be the best choice for framing precious memories, needlework, photos, memorabilia shadowboxes, watercolors, canvases or anything you want presented in a frame. Also to become “the place” for artist’s workshops.
Answers by:Gyna Sellers, Owner/President

Peter Butler, M.D. with Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery
543 Fontaine St., gulfcoastplasticsurgery.com
What inspired you to get started? As a first-year medical student, I had the privilege of working with a renowned plastic surgeon. That first-hand experience inspired me to pursue a career as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Knowing that I have improved the lives of my patients is the reason I love what I do. Each day brings unique challenges. The blend of art and science is one of the reasons I love my job.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? All of us at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery are dedicated to providing our patients with the excellent care and superior results. We see ourselves as our patients’ partner, offering the latest in surgical technique with compassion and understanding.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I am proud of the reputation Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery has earned throughout the years. I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Northwest Florida for many years to come.
Answers by: Peter N. Butler, M.D., Plastic Surgeon

idgroup
300 E. Intendencia St., idgroupbranding.com
What inspired you to get started? At first, I was interested in creating marketing campaigns that looked great. Over time, I started to become more interested in how I could help organizations not only tell their story but live it in a way that’s authentic and purposeful. This has been our firm’s guiding star ever since.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? I am passionate about helping people become who they’re meant to be, whether it be brands, organizations leaders, friends or my office family. I’m most happy when I see my clients and my team, achieve their full potential and I do what I can to help them reach it.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? idgroup is a brand transformation firm with a fundamentally different approach to branding. We help organizations and leaders engage their stakeholders to achieve new levels of brand clarity that help them tell and live a vivid brand story—creating rich experiences and building strong brand reputations in the process.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I’m currently in the process of writing a book on our success with our branding process. It’s a playbook for leaders on how to align their brand’s purpose and performance to achieve new levels of prosperity. Ultimately, we want people to think of branding in a completely different way.
Answers by:Mona Amodeo, Ph.D., President/Founder

Infinite Ink Tattoo Studio
1001 Gulf Beach Highway, infiniteinkpensacola.com
What inspired you to get started? Infinite Ink Tattoo Studio strives for great customer service and quality custom tattoos. We offer a state-of-the-art facility that allows our clients to feel comfortable, relaxed and able to enjoy their tattoo experience.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our customers are our motivation. From our local, military, out of town and walk-in customers, we appreciate every client who walks through our doors.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? All of our 10 artists are artistically diverse and specialize in a wide range of tattoo styles. Anyone looking to get new body art, stop in and visit our Infinite Ink family and artwork from the best artists on the Gulf Coast.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We hope to not only be known locally but to become more nationally known for our quality tattooing and artistic abilities.
Answers by: Arthur Erd, Owner/Artist

Levin, Papantonio, Thomas, Mitchell, Rafferty & Proctor, P.A.
316 S. Baylen St., Suite, 600, levinlaw.com
What inspired you to get started? David Levin started the firm over 60 years ago and was soon joined by his brother Fred Levin. Their goal was to win every case, for every client, every time.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? There is great satisfaction in helping people with their legal claims. Often, the fights are hard, which makes the practice of law all the more rewarding.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a civil litigation law firm that tries lawsuits in front of juries. We represent the people, not the big corporations and insurance companies.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We want to continue to expand our law practice, locally and nationally, as we provide a great place to work for over 150 employees, and we feel that we are doing great things for the people and causes we represent.
Answers by:Robert Blanchard, Shareholder

Levin Rinke Realty
10 Portofino Drive, levinrinkerealty.com
What inspired you to get started? Levin Rinke Realty was started in a desire to provide the gold standard in real estate services to the Gulf Coast. Our goal is to be the locally owned, operated and invested company that gives back to the community that’s given us so much.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We absolutely love our community and the ability to live, work and play in paradise. But more importantly, we understand that with great success comes great responsibility. It’s this responsibility to give back to our community that motivates us to continue to build our company and community.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? For 25 years we’ve been selling more than just bricks and mortar, we’ve been helping our friends and family find their home. No matter your lifestyle, no matter your passion in life, we want you to find the perfect place and space.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Our goal is to see our community and company grow. To continue pouring excellent training, resources and marketing into our realtors. And continue to sponsor the lifestyle that makes this place so much fun to call home.
Answers by:Robert Rinke, Broker / Owner

Lindsey Friar Photography
24 W. Chase St., lindseyfriar.com
What inspired you to get started? Having an art education background, it was a seamless transition after having children to get into photography. Naturally, like most moms, I wanted to document everything my children did and soon I started getting asked for pricing to shoot other people’s families. It snowballed from there and has been a dream come true.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? My totally amazing clients. I seriously have the best job ever. I get to meet so many amazing families and give them a forever gift of memories. Watching my client’s children grow is such an honor.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? I specialize in shooting newborn, children and family photography. My style could be described as whimsical, authentic and artistic. While I always give you that one shot of everyone smiling genuinely at the camera, your gallery will be filled with gorgeous artistic shots displaying the true essence of your family.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I’m currently building a new newborn studio/barn in Gulf Breeze. Meanwhile, I’ll be enjoying shooting my family mini sessions this fall and Santa mini sessions. New ideas for minis are always brewing, so be sure to follow my Facebook page.Answers by:Lindsey Friar, Owner

John L. Peacock, Jr.
200 S. Tarragona St., edwardjones.com
What inspired you to get started? I have a strong desire to assist individuals, families and small business owners identify and meet their financial goals.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The motivation that started me in this career has only grown as I have been able to positively impact the lives of so many clients.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We operate as the Chief Financial Officer for the individual, family or small business owner trying to achieve a variety of financial goals.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are always trying to improve the client experience along with the depth and breadth of that relationship.
Answers by:John L. Peacock, Jr. CFP, Financial Advisor

The Movement Dr
3355 Copter Road, themovementdr.net
What inspired you to get started? My goal was to offer a different style of physical therapy to the community, one that is evidence-based. I did not agree with the traditional model. My model gives the patient the education and tools they need to get better on their own without relying on me.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? I am motivated daily by the people who I work around and the ones who walk through my door. I want to continue learning to continue to provide the most current evidence-based care. I have developed a style that empowers patients to be independent and it’s an awesome feeling.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? The Movement Dr is a cash-based physical therapy clinic. We utilize education and exercise as our intervention tools. We deal with pain and injury in a manner that gives the patient the tools they need to get better on their own.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are developing a telehealth program here at The Movement Dr via online consultations, we are able to help people all over the world by educating them on their injury and giving them the knowledge and tools they need to handle their own rehab.
Answers by: Dr. CJ DePalma, DPT, PT, Owner/Physical Therapist

Tina TortomasewithNAI Halford
24 W. Chase St., naihalford.com
What inspired you to get started? A small commercial firm based out of New Orleans, Louisiana. The excitement, education and encouragement of the team was amazing and up lifting. I never looked back and kept working hard to grow in the industry.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Building success and exceeding project goals, as well as personal goals. Most importantly, working with a great team and getting repeat business from clients and owners alike.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Always on the go and never a dull moment. Commercial real estate is not only sales, managing and representing. It’s about relationships and integrity.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? My ultimate goal is to be known as an ethical professional expert in commercial real estate industry—a sought after “Top Producer”—while continuing my involvement in the community.
Answers by:Tina Tortomase, Sales Associate/Property Manager

Nemours Children’s Specialty Care
5153 N. 9th Ave., nemours.org
What inspired you to get started? I always knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of children and their families. As a pediatric cardiologist, I’ve had the privilege of caring for babies even before they are born and have known the joy of helping these children grow up healthy.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The privilege of working alongside more than 20 talented and dedicated physicians, as well as those from across our larger network of care, and bringing expertise in 10 subspecialties that help young patients with complex childhood conditions, often providing care that cannot be found anywhere else in the region.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Nemours is one of the nation’s largest pediatric healthcare providers with access to resources from across geographies, specialties, clinics and hospitals to give children in Pensacola the safest, most comprehensive and innovative care in the region. Caring for children is not part of what we do; it’s all we do.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Our goal is to ensure a successful collaboration and rollout of expanded services with West Florida Healthcare. Our experience in providing care for children coupled with their focus on quality and patient satisfaction makes this a win-win for the region.
Answers by:Mary Bailey Mehta, MD, Chief Medical Officer

Salon San Carlos
528 W. Garden St., salonsancarlos.com
What inspired you to get started? Our inspiration was a desire to be entrepreneurs and to create a business that would benefit a lot of people.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We are motivated by our clients and our staff. We feel it is our responsibility to take care of both. We want to “wow” our clients and help our staff to be successful.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a salon with a very welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. Our stylists are continually working on advanced education. We specialize in all hair types and we are definitely the location for curls with certified curls experts on staff. Our goal is creating a customized look to match your personality, features and lifestyle.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? That is the million-dollar question. We want to create more leaders in our industry and in our community. We also have some expansion projects on the table.
Answers by:Carlos and Pam Garcia, Owners

Serendipity Skincare Studio
418 E. Belmont St., serendipitythespa.com
What inspired you to get started? I’ve always been fascinated with skincare and skincare products. I had a close friend who had horrible acne when we were young, so the desire to be able to help clients like her is what got me interested.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? I’m seeing more and more clients with acne into their 30s and I’m fascinated with what could be causing this, so I’m constantly learning and trying new methods on clients, with great results in the end thankfully. Seeing the end result is fulfilling.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? A small boutique skincare studio with an emphasis on offering wellness from the inside out.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I am looking to expand my retail to include some of the indie skincare lines that aren’t readily available in stores. I’m a huge fan of small batch skincare lines.
Answers by: Jen Messer, Owner/Master Esthetician

Sole Inn and Suites
200 N. Palafox, soleinnandsuites.com
What inspired you to get started? Pensacola’s need for more lodging downtown and a desire to save Sole from the wrecking ball and bring her back to life.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Being an essential part of Pensacola’s thriving revitalization.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? A unique boutique style, ‘50s revitalized hotel with a modern flair, in the heart of downtown Pensacola.
Answers by: Mark Bodiford, General Manager

Spot On Catering
1707 E. Avery St., spotonpensacola.com
What inspired you to get started? I grew up traveling with my family trying different foods from around the world. My parents enjoyed cooking and from a young age, I always liked to help out in the kitchen. While in culinary school I started working with Chef Blake Rushing, who later became my business partner.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? I love living in Pensacola and getting to be a part of its growth as a city. Being such a young chef and having a new business, I am always trying to learn about new food trends and techniques to give my business something others can’t offer.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Spot On Catering is much more than just a catering company. We like to make all our menus custom for each customer whether it’s for a wedding or a private five-course dinner in the privacy of your own home. We often partner with The Lee House for wine dinners.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? The goal is to keep growing the catering business, along with doing the five-course wine dinners at The Lee House. Hoping to also grow more of a following for our private chef service. Eventually, we may open a small store or restaurant but nothing is in the works yet.
Answers by: Ian Gillette, Chef/Owner

Stay The Spa
1010 N. 12th Ave., staythespa.com
What inspired you to get started? We wanted to bring a world-class spa experience to East Hill with good pricing in a friendly, not stuffy, atmosphere.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our clients love coming in and they love their results. Our service providers are the best in the area at what they do.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Stay The Spa is your friendly, neighborhood spa. We use all organic Eminence products. Also, we are the only place in town for sugaring.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We just want to keep growing and seeing the great results our clients get. We are thrilled to be a part of the building boom that is occurring on 12th Avenue.
Answers by: Jennifer, Owner

Sweet Betsy Tattoos
1501 W. Garden St., sweetbetsytattoos.com
What inspired you to get started? I started Sweet Betsy Tattoos in order to continue to offer a heartfelt and private tattoo experience to Pensacola after Black Sparrow Tattoo (my home of 8 years) closed. I wanted to ensure that I could create from a loving place.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We love what we do and we love our clients. Plain and simple.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are not “your daddy’s tattoo shop,” that’s for sure. No flash. All-custom art. All private rooms. We love on you like family. Sweet Betsy’s is like your grandma’s house… but cooler.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Murals are coming in 2017.
Answers by: Betsy Badwater Owner/Tattooer

Victus Dental
2850 Monroe St., victusdental.com
What inspired you to get started? I have always been passionate about helping people and making a difference in the world. The thing I love about dentistry is that it gives me the opportunity to work with people of all ages and from all walks of life combined with my love for technology and science.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The bonds that I strive to establish and maintain with my patients are some of the most meaningful relationships I have in my life. Watching people’s transformations go from being shy to smiling to lighting up the room because of their confidence in their teeth is extremely rewarding.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Victus Dental is a family-friendly office focused on patient comfort. Our doctor and staff believe that patient needs are top priority. We use the most advanced technology to ensure that our patients receive top-notch care.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Victus Dental is in the process of expanding. We will soon be growing our practice to provide our patients with high-quality care at more convenient hours.
Answers by: Christina McNeill, Office Manager

Volume ONE
7 W. Main St., volumeonesalon.com
What inspired you to get started? Always seeing the bigger picture and wanting more. I’m also inspired by leaders, mentors and travel. I realized the only way to achieve the level of success I envisioned was to venture out on my own. That was almost 10 years ago.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? My staff is what I work for everyday. Seeing them grow, mature and create better lives for themselves, inside the business and out, keeps me wanting to more. I like being part of keeping young people in Pensacola, by giving them an opportunity to make a living doing what they love.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a versatile collective of raw talent, cultivated and driven by education. Our brand is a reflection of individuality, yet togetherness. Volume ONE’s initiative as a whole is much more than just beauty or image but an ever-evolving culture that consistently delivers life-changing experiences to the community.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? To continue to build the Volume ONE brand, as well as our barbershop—Wilfrid’s Barber and Fine Goods. Also to invest in our new talent with an added salon downtown that will cater to a younger clientele and to start working towards building a high-end cosmetology program for the area.
Answers by: Hurst Alexander, Owner/Creative Director

Voyage Real Estate
700 N. DeVilliers St., voyagegulfcoast.com
What inspired you to get started? I wanted to show other people my age that Pensacola is a place that rewards those who blaze a trail.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Making Pensacola better fuels our team. We’ve made a lot of progress over the years but Pensacola still has a long way to go. We want to be apart of that continued progress.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Voyage is a neighborhood real estate company that seeks to provide the highest and best for our agents, our clients and our community.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are working on a number of residential, commercial and mixed-use developments that complement what makes our community’s neighborhoods so great, and will continue to build our team to accomplish these goals.
Answers by:John David Ellis, Broker/Owner

Welch SkinCare Center
8333 N. Davis Highway, kevinwelchmd.com
What inspired you to get started? A passion for helping people. When people look their best they feel their best.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The patients. Being able to provide the latest technologies in general dermatology, cosmetic dermatology and skincare.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Dr. Welch is part of a large dermatology group, The Dermatology & Laser Center that can address all dermatological needs such as acne, psoriasis and skin cancer. Dr. Welch and his staff personally provide cosmetic services such as toxins, fillers, lasers, massage and facials.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? The Welch SkinCare Center is happy to announce a partnership with Skin Ceuticals Skincare. We hope to simplify the choices while continuing to provide excellent and affordable skincare for our clients and patients. We are excited about our new retail space located inside the Medical Center Clinic in Pensacola.
Answers by: Kelly Bauman, Cosmetic Concierge

Wild Lemon
3000 N. 12th Ave., beawildlemon.com
What inspired you to get started? Brandi and Lindsay were each major motivating factors to opening Wild Lemon. Their talent as instructors, creative energy and incredible work ethics motivated me to beg each of them to open the studio with me.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our clients inspire us every day to push boundaries, to work harder, to create more. We love our “lemons.” We are overwhelmed by the positive response to Wild Lemon and want to earn your business every day.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Wild Lemon is a boutique fitness studio and retail shop. Beyond that, we are a supportive network of women who want to help you reach your fitness goals by working from the inside out and to build strength that will enable you to do the things you love, injury-free.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Being that we have only been open a couple of months, right now our sole focus is to provide the best experience possible to our clients, from the content of our classes to the designs of our apparel in the shop. We want you to be proud to #beawildlemon.
Answers by: Kiley Bolster Manning, Brandi Reeves and Lindsay Rae Myers, Owners

—Retail—

Aragon Wine Market
27 S. 9th Ave., aragonwinemarket.com
What inspired you to get started? I became a wine drinker at an early age but never had any experience in the actual wine business. I thought that I’d like running my own business and wine was a natural fit.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our long time manager left recently. While we were all extremely sad to see her go, having a new manager with fresh ideas has motivated us to grow as a store. We now are having more events at the wine store and our wine selection has become even more diverse.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We’re a small, funky little family-run wine store. We’re based in a neighborhood and consider ourselves part of the community of Pensacola.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? It’s a secret but keep your ears open next year for a fun event that we’re hoping to put together.
Answers by: Charlotte Gordon, Owner

Bambooze Fine Wine & Liquor
8084 N. Davis Highway, # F3, bamboozefinewine.com
What inspired you to get started? We were inspired by an opportunity to explore wines and spirits from all over the world that play an important role in so many different cultures.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? In the last ten years, we have experienced incredible growth in the availability of different spirits from around the world. This coupled with the burgeoning craft distillation movement has created an almost endless supply of new and different drinking experiences.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Excellent customer service, amazing variety and constant passion for improvement.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? World peace through booze.
Answers by: Stephen Loveless, Owner

Blue Moon Antique Mall
3721 W. Navy Blvd., antiqueguide.biz
What inspired you to get started? We started Blue Moon from the love of the oldest form of recycling. The love of wood, fine china, silver, glassware, the elegant ways from the past and so we would have a workplace of our own.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? New inventory, new displays, new customers, new dealers, new awards—there is a lot that keeps us motivated to keep going. This is a wonderful business and we have a wonderful staff.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? 13,700 square feet of stuff—all kinds of stuff, like furniture that’s new-used-refinished-recycled, glassware, military items, books, records, art, jewelry, crystals, essential oils, shells, cards, mid-century modern items (and lots of them), 1960s 1970s, 1980s stuff. Costumes, vintage clothing, coins, knives, toys, cookware, decor and so much more.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? For Blue Moon to continue to be ‘the place to shop with the most reasonable prices’ and for our wonderful dealers to be successful.
Answers by: Andrea Wessel, Owner

Coldwater Gardens
7009 Creek Stone Road, coldwatergardens.com
What inspired you to get started? The Inspiration for Coldwater Gardens came partially from the book, “The Omnivore’s Dilemma,” which among other things, promoted the idea of using the land intelligently and leaving it in better shape than when you started.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Continued motivation comes from watching the improvements to the land evolve, and from the appreciation our guests have for this place after spending some time here.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Our business is eco-tourism in a nutshell. We have unique accommodations from camping to a luxury treehouse, which provides a nice base to explore the nature and the gardens that we nurture along with a refreshingly clean and natural creek flowing alongside the property.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? The next goal is actually more of the same. Continued improvements to the land and reestablishing the original ecosystems that have dominated this area for thousands of years. Enhancing the visitor experience is also high on our agenda by maintaining and improving the gardens and accommodations.
Answers by: Rusty Erdman, Owner

Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Cafe
315 W. Garden St., everman.org
What inspired you to get started? Ever’man started in the early 1970s as a place to buy healthy food at great prices. For more than 40 years, our offerings have expanded to include artisanal breads, sustainable meat, dairy and seafood, organic wines and craft beers, a full line of vitamins, herbal remedies and personal care products.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Ever’man is not only a trusted, local community source for organic and sustainable foods at a reasonable price but also a gathering place to share ideas and experience healthy living in fun, engaging ways. Today our co-op offers a host of complimentary classes and events in its Educational Center.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? At Ever’man we provide healthier, nutritious alternatives to conventional offerings, while still providing our members and customers with a wide variety of foods. Due to our long-term relationships with local and regional farmers, our seasonal selection is plentiful. Our cooperative supports organic, local, cruelty-free, fair-trade and non-GMO products.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Everyone at Ever’man is excited to expand our cooperative and mission into a part of our community that is experiencing amazing growth. A second location is planned for 9 Mile Road, where a new grocery store, cafe and educational center will be built.
Answers by:Maria Pinochet, Marketing Manager/Membership Services

Palafox Computers
111 N. Palafox, palafoxcomputers.com
What inspired you to get started? Technology is a part of all of our lives. Every household has seven different devices and they will need support. I wanted to be that lifeline to our community. It was a need that we had in the downtown area and we wanted to fill that void.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The challenge is what keeps us rolling here at Palafox Computers. We love finding new solutions to various problems. My customers are certainly the largest part. I now have over 4,000 clients that we have serviced and I could not do this without them.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are an all-in-one store. We service, sell, and install all products we provide. Any type of computer, phone, tablet issue, we can provide the solution. When you come in you will see a clean showroom with friendly staff ready to help meet your needs.What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We would love to take on more small business support. We have now set the systems in place to provide more business-to-business solutions without affecting our customer service to our residential and walk-in clients.
Answers by: Kyle Crawford, President

Susan Campbell Jewelry
420 S. Palafox, susancampbelljewelry.com
What inspired you to get started? Youthful idealism.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Arelentless fighting spirit.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? SCJ is adesigner jewelry gallery meets creative re-design and custom workshop, full of educational and hands-on experiences and events to bring you in tune with your inner muse.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Fully developing our workshop/studio area for visitors to engage in the design process of an age-old art form steeped in tradition, social and family history, sentimentality and really cool rocks.
Answers by: Susan Campbell, Owner

Toad Hall Antiques & Gifts
824 E. Belmont St., toadhallantiques.com
What inspired you to get started? My love of design, unique pieces and one-of-kind items has allowed me to follow my dreams for the past 18 yrs. I am blessed to have a thriving business that I can share with Pensacola.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? My wonderful customers who are thrilled when they find that perfect outfit, piece of jewelry or time for their home. I am always looking for unique pieces that will appeal to a variety of people.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? European furniture, handcrafted jewelry, wonderful home accessories, a great selection of women’s apparel, pottery and unique gifts.What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Focusing on expanding our women’ s apparel lines, as well as finding more unique gifts for all occasions.
Answers by: Dana McBride, Owner

Truly Spokin Bicycle Co.
6103 Tippin Ave., trulyspokin.com
What inspired you to get started? The love for bicycles and helping people.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Watching the joy and excitement of bringing new riders to the sport. The stories of kids first ride without training wheels, or how someone completed their first century “with hills.”
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Diverse—we do everything from kids and family bikes, to high-end race bikes and exotic customs.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Help to bring BMX racing back to the Panhandle.
Answers by: Mark Woolson, Owner/Operator

—Food—

Another Broken Egg Cafe
721 E. Gregory St., anotherbrokenegg.com
What inspired you to get started? For years Linda and I drove to Destin several times a month for the quality breakfast we wanted. Linda is from Lafayette and we have a desire for full flavor. Tommy and Marcia Green encouraged us to bring that quality to Pensacola, which we decided to do in 2011.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our customers constantly comment on the quality, freshness and flavors of our dishes. While it is certainly not possible to please everyone, our franchise is responsive to customer comments and we try to keep up with trends.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We offer fresh, flavorful breakfast, brunch and lunch in a clean, pleasant family setting, served in a timely manner by professional, helpful, knowledgeable servers who have the customer’s best interest in mind.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We have hope of adding a second location in the Pensacola area within the next year. We are in love with Pensacola and its people. It took us a long time to find this city and we are delighted to live here.
Answers by:Homer and Linda Biggers, Co-Owners

Casey’s Hot Dogs
4051 Barrancas Ave., #C, facebook.com/caseyshotdogs
What inspired you to get started? All my life I had wanted to have my own restaurant. After selling my dogs on NAS Pensacola, I knew I had something good.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Hearing everyone talk about the wonderful experience here at the restaurant and how great the dogs are.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? A clean, comfortable restaurant that sells hot dogs larger and juicier then most with chili, cheese sauce and coleslaw made from scratch.What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I would love to expand across town, we are open to franchise discussion.
Answers by:Jack Casey, Vet/Owner/Operator

Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Shoppe and Cafe
236 W. Garden St., #2A, chrisoulascheesecakeshoppe.com
What inspired you to get started? I grew up in the restaurant business. I was the dessert maker in the family. My first job was hostess at our restaurant on Pensacola Beach in 1986 at Boy on a Dolphin. I worked there for over 10 years helping out and making Greek desserts.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? I really love what I do and I just get everything about cheesecake. In doing research about cheesecakes early on, I read that cheesecakes were invented on the island, Samos, Greece, where my father is from, you could say it is in the DNA.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We understand that customer service is number one and product is number two. We offer homemade fresh, never frozen cheesecakes made in our store in many flavors and sizes. We have a wonderful, unique fast and casual lunch menu with soup, salad and sandwiches.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are expanding with catering lunches in the downtown area. Wedding cheesecakes have become very popular, and we distribute our cheesecakes to locally owned restaurants and grocery stores. A second store in a neighborhood area would be great.
Answers by:Chrisoula Athanasios Hulion, Owner/Baker/Decorator

End of The Line Cafe
610 E. Wright St., eotlcafe.com
What inspired you to get started? The love of cooking inspires me daily. I wanted to provide options for a healthier lifestyle, 15 years ago there were very few options for dining out. I love helping teach people how to prepare healthy food for themselves and their families at home, through the cooking classes.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? People are becoming more conscious of what they eat, going vegan and realizing that what we eat can actually change our lives. I can’t image not helping with this momentum. People motivate me with their stories of how they’ve overcome health issues. It makes me very happy.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? A casual cafe offering creative organic vegan cuisine, fair trade coffee and catering. A non-judgmental, pet-friendly, fun art space.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I would love to join with other health minded businesses or organizations for events geared toward educating our community on how to enjoy life, eat well and be outside in the fresh air and sunshine.
Answers by: Jen Knight, Owner

The Fish House
600 S. Barracks St., greatsouthernrestaurants.com
What inspired you to get started? The Merrills were looking to invest in downtown Pensacola, creating a spot on the water for friends and family to gather with good food, good service and good grits.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Pensacola. Our community is what keeps us going. There is so much positive growth and momentum; we are thrilled to be a part of downtown Pensacola.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? The Fish House is a Pensacola tradition. For over two decades, The Fish House has been serving up fresh seafood with dockside dining overlooking beautiful Pensacola Bay and Seville Harbor.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We love being a part of this great community and are vested in continuing to make Pensacola a destination for locals and visitors alike through the amazing assets our community possesses.
Answers by: Maria Goldberg, Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events

Five Sisters Blues Cafe
421 W. Belmont St., fivesistersbluescafe.com
What inspired you to get started? Five Sisters Blues Cafe is an homage to one man’s fondest memories of growing up in the American South, an homage to the “five sisters”—his mother Jeannette and her sisters Cora, Sara, Dorothy and Margaret. Their love of food and music is what created the vision.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The neighborhood is steeped in a rich African American musical heritage. It is exciting to see the revitalization of the Belmont DeVilliers neighborhood, taking ownership of the amazing history. This, along with the people of the neighborhood, continues to be incredibly motivating.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Five Sisters, located at the corner of Belmont and DeVilliers, is built on some of Pensacola’s deepest history. The reconstruction of the old Gussie’s Record Shop heralded the reawakening of the neighborhood. Featuring good ol’ Southern cuisine Five Sisters offers daily blackboard, house specialties and live blues music.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are currently working on a project with the Mississippi Blues Commission, hoping to be designated as an official stop on the historic Mississippi Blues Delta trail. It would be an incredible honor for our neighborhood to receive the prestigious honor.
Answers by: Maria Goldberg, Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events

Georgio’s Pizza
3000 E. Cervantes St., mygeorgiospizza.com
What inspired you to get started? I begged a restaurant manager to give me a job to pay off a traffic ticket.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? It’s corny but I am always attempting to have a perfect restaurant. Also, daily I try to help the employees become better, not just at work but also at life.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are not just a great pizza place. Our burgers are second to none. The gyro sandwiches are the best in Pensacola.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Our next project is to rework our menu. This gives us a chance to drop the poor sellers and replace them with new items.
Answers by:Carl Hixon, Owner

Hot Spot Barbecue
901 E. Larua St., servebbq.com
What inspired you to get started? Our love for people and serving them great food. After all, barbecue is a tradition in the south.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We have many employees who depend on us. Our family takes that very seriously.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a family business. Our goal is to make our guests happy with a great experience that includes our award-winning barbecue and our friendly servers. And don’t forget those free cookies for your first visit.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Keeping our food consistent and growing our catering business.
Answers by:Cheri Hlubek, Catering Manager

J’s Bakery and Cafe
2014 N. 12th Ave., jsbakeryandcafe.com
What inspired you to get started? J’s bakery is what everyone grew up on. We couldn’t see losing another Pensacola institution to closure. I grew up around the corner and wasn’t ready to give up on the cookies and éclairs I have eaten all my life. J’s just needed some love.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Nothing compares to your hometown bakery. Whether they have been a customer for fifty years or two years, continuing the tradition of petite fours, smiley face cookies, cakes and all the rest is fulfilling when customers share their unique memories of J’s.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Nestled in the heart of East Hill, J’s Bakery is that neighborhood bakery that you grew up with, complete with cookies, pastries, cakes, pies and sweet cinnamon breads.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Short-term goals are to reestablish the wedding cake and cake business and maintain the momentum we have built up over the last year. Long term we would love to see a second location at some point in the future and possibly some retail placement in select stores.
Answers by: Ryan Thomas, Current Owner

Jackson’s Steakhouse
400 S. Palafox, jacksonsrestaurant.com
What inspired you to get started? Jackson’s occupies a revitalized 1860s building that overlooks Plaza Ferdinand—where, in July 1821, General Andrew Jackson accepted the transfer of Florida from Spain to the United States and raised the American flag in Pensacola for the first time. This historic moment was the inspiration for the restaurant.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? At Jackson’s, we continually strive to provide a wonderful dining experience. Chef Irv Miller is inspired by the use of local products within all of our menus, thereby making an effort to help sustain our local economy. This is always an inspiration.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Jackson’s procures only Midwestern beef from the heartland of America. Steaks and fresh, local seafood are hand-selected and artistically prepared to perfection. Over the past two decades, Jackson’s has earned a number of prestigious culinary awards on a local, state and national level.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We have recently embarked on a new project—Jackson’s is now open seven days a week serving brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, lunch Monday through Friday and dinner service nightly. As Pensacola grows, we are excited to grow as well.
Answers by:Maria Goldberg, Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Events

Le Dough, La Patisserie Locale
helloledough.com
What inspired you to get started? Traveling has always inspired me creatively. I’ve enjoyed boutique donut shops in several bigger cities and wanted to bring the same concept to Pensacola.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Peoples’ response to our new business has been incredible. Knowing that people enjoy it motivates me to keep creating new menu items and delivering a consistently delicious product.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? An inventive bakery specializing in handmade donuts and tartes. We focus on keeping our menu unique and delivering delightful treats that taste like something special. Every item is made with high-quality ingredients and a lot of love.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We will have the first donut truck in Pensacola. We will be rolling before the year is over and have an extended menu that you will not want to miss. We will continue to deliver the tastiest treats and impeccable service.
Answers by: Samantha Eckiss, Owner

Lucy’s in the Square
301 S. Adams St.
What inspired you to get started? After living in downtown Pensacola for a few years our love for this area, its people, and character grew. We found ourselves always looking for the perfect place to relax with great wine and beer options, fresh food and friendly staff. So we took a leap and created just that.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? It’s definitely our guests. The regulars who just keep coming back for more, the first-timers whose minds are blown away and aren’t afraid to brag about us, and the people who just keep bringing more friends. I love to watch and hear the laughter echoing from a packed patio.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? A relaxed but social environment with indoor and pet-friendly outdoor seating. A meeting place meant for bringing people together, while enjoying amazing wine and beer offerings paired really well with light and fresh food choices.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? In our first year, we have already made great strides supporting local organizations and charities but I definitely see us growing our support to new levels in the future.
Answers by: Ron and Heather Kilpatrick, Owners

The Magnolia
2907 E. Cervantes St., magnoliapensacola.com
What inspired you to get started? We fell in love and wanted to spend all of our time together, so we decided to start a business. When traveling, we found ourselves gravitating toward small, locally owned neighborhood joints, so that is what we opened.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our incredible patrons and dedicated staff motivate us every day to do better, to be better. We take it seriously that people still choose us after six years in business and want to continue to give them reasons to.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? The Magnolia is a neighborhood bar with better food than you would expect from a neighborhood bar.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We started the M.A.G. Block Party this year as a way to marry what we are known for (food, drinks and good times) with what we are motivated by: connecting with people and paying it forward.
Answers by: Bill and Kiley Manning, Owners

Restaurant IRON
22 N. Palafox, restaurantiron.com
What inspired you to get started? Our love of food and the ability to create a unique restaurant and contribute to the food offerings of Pensacola.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Cooking is a continual growth sport. There is always something new to learn and play with.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Progressive Southern cuisine with a hard focus on quality of ingredients and presentation.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We would love to add lunch back to our current offerings in the future.
Answers by:Alex McPhail, Executive Chef

Skopelos at New World
600 S. Palafox, skopelosatnewworld.com
What inspired you to get started? Ever since closing the location on Scenic Highway in 2009 I knew I wanted to reopen again. Downtown has been transformed in the last seven-eight years and it was a great opportunity to relocate our iconic restaurant to this vibrant area.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? I have always said that the reputation of a restaurant is only as good as the last meal a guest consumes. That’s what motivates me every day to excel in this endeavor.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are an upscale restaurant that serves local, fresh seafood, certified Angus beef and mezze dishes with Mediterranean inspired flavors. We also have one of the largest ballrooms for private events in the area.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are creating fun events to enhance the downtown experience. Such as our Food and Wine around the World festival in July and a New Years Eve dance.
Answers by: Gus P. Silivos, Executive Chef/ Director of Operation

Union Public House
309 S. Reus St., unionpensacola.com
What inspired you to get started? The love and respect of baller food and libations and our awesome community.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? In our profession (and most others) the day you stop learning is the day it is all over. We have to strive to learn, innovate and stay fresh or it just becomes boring. Everyone can always be better and that is our motivation.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a crafty southern pub where it all comes together. We take a cheeky, fun approach to our food and cocktails, while taking our techniques and execution very serious. Think: “fun, forward thinking southern.”
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We just want to keep growing and keep up our same high standards and great product.
Answers by: Blake Rushing, Chef/Owner

—Drink—

A Little Madness Brewing Company
9838 N. Davis Highway, alittlemadnessbrewingcompany.com
What inspired you to get started? We strive to make unique, high quality, handcrafted beverages in a sustainable manner while giving back to our local community through education and partnerships.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We look forward to developing partnerships with local and regional not-for-profit groups that enhance our community by improving the environment, animal welfare, and the human condition. A monthly showcase will promote the benefits provided by individual groups while generating donations via the “Giving Tap.”
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? ALMBC is a Pensacola based craft microbrewery focused on high quality hand crafted beverages for everyone. We make a number of unique offerings and strive to find the right beer for everyone who imbibes adult beverages while also offering non-alcoholic options for those who do not or cannot drink.What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Sustainability is our ultimate target. We will utilize solar energy in the form of thermal collection (to heat strike and sparge water) and electricity. Spent grains will be used as feed in local farms. Once established, we will take these ideas to another level attempting to close the sustainability loop.
Answers by:David Beddick, Jr., President/Head Brewer/Lead Janitor

The Cabaret
101 S. Jefferson St.
What inspired you to get started? The ability to give back to a growing community by daily challenging myself with new opportunities.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Seeing customers smile and knowing we provide a safe place for expression.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Anuber neighborhood bar with a chill, weekday vibe and a nightclub aesthetic during the weekend evenings.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Enhancing a more fluid and ergonomic floor plan that will allow more nightly events.
Answers by: Paul Dye

NYN’s Badlands Roadside Bar
23 S. Palafox, nynbadlands.com
What inspired you to get started? I have several family members in the business, so my first job was a busboy in my uncle’s restaurant. I knew then this is what I was going to do.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Every day is a new adventure in the service industry.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? A comfortable, non-assuming bar.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Becoming the go-to spot downtown.
Answers by:Nick Zangari, Owner

Seville Quarter
130 E. Government St., sevillequarter.com
What inspired you to get started? Downtown Pensacola is the inspiration for Seville Quarter’s start. We love the people of Pensacola and the beautiful location.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We just celebrated 50 years of business and we look forward to 50 more years.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Seville Quarter is located in the heart of Downtown Pensacola. We are the Gulf Coast’s go-to entertainment destination since 1967. We have seven rooms of fun, seven nights a week.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? The opening of a new steakhouse across the street from Seville Quarter. We hope to add to the great line-up of restaurants downtown. We are also very excited about all of the new residential properties opening in our neighborhood. Downtown is hot, and we are right in the heart of it.
Answers by:Buck Mitchell, Marketing Director

Vinyl Music Hall
2 S. Palafox, vinylmusichall.com
What inspired you to get started? We saw a need for Pensacola, and downtown Pensacola in particular, to be home to a top notch, mid-level club venue where local, regional, national and international musicians and entertainers could perform for the people of our city.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The number one answer would always be the fans in Pensacola and the surrounding areas. Over seven, years we’ve learned just how enthusiastic folks around here are about seeing some of their favorite bands and entertainers in this setting.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Vinyl Music Hall is a live venue first and foremost. The draw here is who and what is on our stage. It’s similar to a House Of Blues type concert hall, we just don’t happen to have a restaurant attached.What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Always moving forward. More shows, bigger shows, better shows and even more diversity in the type of shows, from format to genre.
Answers by: Harry Levin and Evan Levin, Owners with Chris Wilkes, Talent Buyer

—Weddings—

Carriages of Pensacola
3852 Lane Road, carriagesofpensacola.com
What inspired you to get started? On the way back from a graduation trip to the Keys, I arranged a carriage tour of Ocala horse country for our daughter. Little did I know, two months later, while looking for a companion horse, we would become the proud owners of a draft horse and a carriage company.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Weddings are our passion, celebrating our 100th in 2017. It is tremendously rewarding to be part of such a special day in the lives of our clients. We take special care of our brides, helping them get the highest impact with our carriages and photos that will keep those memories forever.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a family owned horse-drawn carriage company equipped with Victorian carriages and beautiful draft horses. We provide rides for up to six guests at a time all over the Gulf Coast. We are often hired for weddings, funerals, anniversaries, birthday/holiday parties, date nights and festivals.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are doubling our offerings over the holidays to meet growing demand. We also aspire to acquire an additional draft horse, a Shire, a threatened breed in the U.S. A stately draft horse similar to a Clydesdale, usually black with a white blaze and white feathering on all four feet.
Answers by:Barbara Righter, Co-Owner

Culinary Productions Inc.
700 W. Main St., culinaryproductionsinc.com
What inspired you to get started? Honestly, I just needed a job 25 years ago and had no idea I would enjoy this line of work as much as I did and do to this day.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The biggest motivation for me is the job. I love getting out and catering events and talking with the guests and clients.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a full service off-site catering company specializing in customer service. I always say we are a true catering company, meaning we cater to you. Whatever our clients need we can provide.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I know it sounds cliché but our main goal is to just get better at what we do each year. Although I can’t say too much about it for now, we should have some exciting news for Culinary Productions very soon. We look forward to this new chapter.
Answers by:Mike DeSorbo, Owner

Documented Photography by Hara Gabrielle
813 N. Spring St., documentedphotography.com
What inspired you to get started? My passion for photography started when I was a kid, my dad handed me a 35 mm Canon AE-1. I began learning film and dark room in middle school, interned for a newspaper in high school and started my first studio at 21. At 38, I’m still ultra inspired.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Being trusted to document the lives of my clients is truly a blessing. It’s the remarkable relationships that are created during the process that inspire me. It’s watching the kids grow up or the bride tear up as she walks down the aisle. I’m there for all the meaningful times.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Documented Photography is a modern wedding and portrait studio. I specialize in magazine-style wedding coverage, which is a blend of photojournalism and fashion photography. Family and kids portraits are fresh, natural and easy. It’s emotion and true expression mixed with skillful composition that makes my particular photography style unique.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? 2018 promises a lot. The new website will launch. New photo ideas are hatching. Soon I’ll announce new options for buying prints online and I’m starting a line of vintage frames and display options. I’m excited about so many things.
Answers by: Hara Gabrielle, Owner/Artist

Kayla Baptista Photography
kaylabaptistaphotographyllc.com
What inspired you to get started? My kids. I started with taking photos of them and found my true passion in photography, which is couples and weddings.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? My clients. I feel like since starting photography, I have met the most amazing people and made amazing friends.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Light, airy, romantic. I love capturing real moments for people to cherish forever.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I would like to just keep improving. I love seeing the changes each year in growing into who I want to be in this business.
Answers by:Kayla Baptista

La-T-Da Events and Rentals
5808 Hall Road, Jay, latdaevents.com
What inspired you to get started? Due to being involved in the weddings of many family members and friends, a passion for creating beautiful events was sparked far before this business was started. After many years, I finally decided to make that passion a career, so that I could make a living doing what I love.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We are motivated each and every day by our brides and their families. The look of pure joy on their faces during the days leading up to their wedding is an absolute inspiration. Their excitement and appreciation makes what we do a truly worthwhile experience.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are in the business of bringing visions to life. We plan, design and execute special events throughout the Southeast. Our attention to detail and ability to relate to our clients sets us apart. We invest in each of our clients and build relationships that last a lifetime.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Since we started our business, we have grown more than we ever imagined. However, we are not ready to stop growing. We love making visions become a reality and our goal is to continue doing just that, while also expanding our inventory and services.
Answers by: Ruby Bagley, Owner

Melody Weber Make Up Artist
4305 Spanish Trail, melodyweber.com
What inspired you to get started? I’ve always loved makeup, skincare and people. My friends often asked me to do their makeup for various functions and special occasions. I decided to get serious and I trained with celebrity makeup artists and later became an esthetician. This job is such a great fit for me.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Knowing that my clients and vendors have confidence in me. It’s gratifying to know that there’s a trust level there and I never want to disappoint them.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? As a professional makeup artist and licensed esthetician, I am able to take care of your skincare needs as well as makeup. I also give makeup lessons for all ages. I do both traditional and airbrush makeup. I do a lot of bridal, print, prom, commercial, television, corporate, etc.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I really want to do more production and commercial work.
Answers by:Melody Weber, Make-Up Artist/Esthetician

Somethin’ 2 Talk About Salon
7850 Pine Forest Road, facebook.com/somethin2talkaboutsalon
What inspired you to get started? Somethin’ 2 Talk About opened in 2012 with the goal to have a great work place to make co-workers and guests feel right at home. We hope we have accomplished that and then some. We started with three people and now have 26 ladies who we like to call family.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Seeing our clients come in and leave with a smile on their faces. We thrive off making people smile and feel better about themselves as they leave the salon. We always try to make every guest feel special and at home for every visit.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Somethin’ 2 Talk About Salon is a unique full-service salon offering hair, nails, and spa pedicures, massage, skin care and makeup services. We also offer Redken hair care products and a small boutique inside to shop for yourself or someone special while you visit.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Somethin’ 2 Talk About Salon is growing. Our next goal is to see our boutique blossom and expand. We are always making changes so you never know what to expect at your next visit. We like to keep everyone guessing to see what’s changing and give them “Somethin 2 Talk About”.
Answers by: Monica Howard, Owner/Stylist and Sandy Marsh, Owner/Stylist

South Coast DJ Service
575 Nix Road, scdjs.com
What inspired you to get started? My love of music, all types, is what inspired me to DJ professionally.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The feeling I get from seeing people dancing and having the time of their lives to the music that I’m playing is what motivates the most. It’s such a fun job and I get to meet so many awesome people.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a professional DJ/MC service for weddings and events of any size. We offer wireless clip-on mics, up-lighting, dance floor lighting and more. If it requires music, sound and/or lights, we are your company.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? My next venture will be a photo booth. We are currently in the market research stage. Just like all of our equipment, our photo booth will be professional grade, industry-standard.
Answers by: Michael Zavison, Owner/Operator

Weddings by Lydia
9511 Holsberry Road, Suite 9B, weddingsbylydia.com
What inspired you to get started? I was excited by the challenge of being in a highly creative industry, meeting people with diverse backgrounds and fulfilling their dreams. I love taking unique ideas and turning them into beautiful celebrations of life and love.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The smiles and hugs I get when the wedding ends; my team who work so hard to make the weddings perfect and who truly love what they do; having family and friends come up to me and say it was the most beautiful wedding they’ve ever seen.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Weddings by Lydia is a creative and unique wedding planning company that offers full-planning services, unique beach packages and “month of” coordinating services to destination and local bridal couples along the Gulf Coast of Florida and Alabama.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Our next goal is to continue to make bridal couples happy and excited that they chose us to share in their very special day. To come up with new ideas and design to bring our weddings to the next level of beautiful and unique.
Answers by: Lydia McHenry, Owner

WeddingWalls Event Rentals
5465 Woodbine Road, Pace, weddingwalls.com
What inspired you to get started? My husband and I planned and designed our wedding. We both loved it so much we decided to jump in with some of our own original backdrop designs. What started out as a fun hobby evolved into a 14-year business that we absolutely love.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The excitement, the trends, the love of meeting so many wonderful couples and families and being part of such a special day.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are more than a rental company. Our special attention to detail combined with our custom backdrops, unique ceiling designs and lighting style in addition to our many wonderful rental items allows us to transform your special day into an unforgettable event.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Our next goal is to add to our inventory by offering some new and exciting event rental items. Check us out on Instagram and Facebook for some exciting news on this.
Answers by:Steve and Tracy Lastinger, Owners/Designers

—Community / Media Music—

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida
1149 Creighton Road, Suite # 1, bbbsnwfl.org
What inspired you to get started? One in three young people will grow up without a mentor. Mentoring, at its core, guarantees children someone cares about them and makes them feel like they matter. Yet, one in three will grow up without this critical asset. In Northwest Florida, that is over 55,000 children. This is unacceptable.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Knowing we can provide children in our community with a person who cares and someone who supports them unconditionally. This is the true lifeline to the work we do at Big Brothers Big Sisters.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Big Brothers Big Sisters matching process and services are critical to breaking the cycles of poverty and poor life choices, and we are a true advocate for educational success. We match children 6-18 years of age with a caring adult.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? To have our doors overflowing with volunteers who want to be part of our community solution, that all children achieve success in life. Our program is critical to our communities’ success.
Answers by:Paula Shell, CEO

Chain Reaction
1000 College Boulevard, Building 98, mychainreaction.org
What inspired you to get started? I wanted to make the world a better place. In order to achieve that you must have a community that serves. I believe the best place to start is teaching teens the impact of service.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Seeing a change happen in a teen and knowing that what we are doing—service learning and leadership development—is really working.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are a teen leadership education institute that utilizes service as its central teaching tool. We are focused on helping teens become the best they can be while learning life’s lessons through service. We utilize each teen’s passion and talent to create service opportunities that are fun, educational and impacting.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We would like to impact 1,000 teens through Chain Reaction membership and institute training.
Answers by:Kristin Fairchild, Executive Director

Representative Clay Ingram
11000 University Parkway, Building 90, myfloridahouse.gov
What inspired you to get started? I was inspired to run for office by a desire to improve the lives of the people in my hometown through the creation of good public policy at the state level.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? In the legislature, a lot of responsibility comes with seniority. I’ll try to use whatever influence I have accrued to do the most good for Northwest Florida. It is also important to me to pass down whatever I’ve learned to the new members of our delegation.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Everyone knows that elected members of the legislature take votes on behalf of constituents at the Capitol but my staff and I also spend a lot time helping constituents navigate the maze of government red tape when dealing with state agencies.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? It is important for me to see the large-scale infrastructure projects and capital outlay projects for education that we’ve undertaken either completed or on their way to completion before leaving office.
Answers by: Clay Ingram, State Representative, District 1

Council on Aging of West Florida
875 Royce St., coawfla.org
What inspired you to get started? Council on Aging was started to fill a need in the community for elder services and advocacy. Less than five percent of non-profits work with seniors, largely because many individuals wrongly believe that those 60 and up are taken care of. That is not the case.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We serve about 2,200 clients every year—delivering meals, providing respite and caregiver support, in-home services and so much more. We are in the midst of the largest ever growth in the senior population and the need keeps increasing even as resources remain the same.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Council on Aging serves, supports and advocates for aging adults in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. We provide social services, educate the public, support those caring for our elders, facilitate community events and help remove the stigma that surrounds aging.What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? While we serve both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, there is a real unmet and unknown need especially in Santa Rosa. Much of the county is so rural that people are not aware of the services available to them. They are the unreached needy.
Answers by: John Clark, President/CEO

North Hill Preservation Association
historicnorthhill.com
What inspired you to get started? Historic preservation of our great neighborhood, it’s architecture and quality of life.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We are inspired every time an historic home is saved or restored and when people choose North Hill for their new home.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are an organization of preservationists who see the beauty of these historic homes and their value to our whole city. North Hill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We hope that our preservation, education and promotion efforts continue to attract future investment.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are involved in landscaping restoration for our public parks: Alabama, Georgia, Miranda and Lee Square.
Answers by: Melanie Nichols, President

onbikes Pensacola
onbikespensacola.org
What inspired you to get started? Before moving back to Pensacola, I took part in a similar charity event that made a huge impact on its community. The combination of people building something good with their hands and then celebrating with a unique party was too tempting not to bring to Pensacola.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The smile on a child’s face who is receiving a brand new bike for the first time. Bicycles represent everything great about being a kid and it’s pretty awesome that this community can come together and make that happen for so many deserving kids.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? onbikes Pensacola is a local non-profit with a goal to provide a brand new bike, helmet and lock to every underprivileged and foster child along the Gulf Coast through our annual Winter Wonder Ride.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Next for onbikes is our bike build in early December and our Second Annual Winter Wonder Ride on December 16 in downtown Pensacola. Our goal is to giveaway 700 brand new bikes this year.
Answers by: Walker Wilson, President

Pensacola Greek Festival
1720 W. Garden St., pensacolagreekfestival.com
What inspired you to get started? What started as a one-night dinner has now transformed into a three-day event filled with love and fellowship. Our biggest fundraiser of the year, the Pensacola Greek Festival is truly our way to share our faith and culture with the Pensacola community.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our passion of our faith and heritage keep this wonderful event alive every year. The Greek Festival is our opportunity to share a little piece of Greece with Pensacola. We each have a different motivation, whether it be family or faith; we do not plan to stop any time soon.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We describe the Greek Festival as a true labor of love. Our passion for our faith and culture is expressed through our food offerings, the church tours and the lively atmosphere we try to create.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We just hope to have more people join in all the love and fun we try to create. Our goal is always for people to enjoy themselves and all we have to offer.
Answers by: Rebecca Pappas, Communications Director

Pensacola Habitat for Humanity’s Hot Wheels Food Truck Festival
300 W. Leonard St., pensacolahabitat.org, pensacolahotwheels.org
What inspired you to get started? The Pensacola Hot Wheels Food Truck Festival was developed by Pensacola Habitat for Humanity as a unique way to further its work to build community in and around our local area, as part of the organization’s mission of building homes, community and hope.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? The excitement of bringing a truly unique food and community experience to Pensacola and seeing it double in size from the first year to the second gets all of us at Pensacola Habitat eager to begin work on the next year to make it even bigger and better.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Food trucks featuring dishes from a variety of cooking styles and flavors come together for this charity event to benefit Pensacola Habitat for Humanity. The event features an eclectic mix of food truck signature dishes, live music and a Hot Wheels Food Truck Tasting Competition.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are looking forward to spreading the word about Pensacola Hot Wheels Food Truck Festival 2018 to encourage even more food trucks to join in the fun. Also, we are excited to develop more partnerships through sponsorships and other community support, furthering the mission of building homes, community and hope.
Answers by:Nancy Wolfe, Director of Development and Communication

Pensacola Little Theatre
400 S. Jefferson St., pensacolalittletheatre.com
What inspired you to get started? Pensacola Little Theatre has been providing live community theatre to Pensacola for over 80 years. PLT is a non-profit organization providing theatrical experiences that entertain, enrich, and educate adults and children who live in or visit Northwest Florida.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our vision is to provide opportunities to use your talents in presenting theatrical productions. We believe that experiencing art in all its dimensions is vital to the fulfillment of civic and community life. As a volunteer-driven organization, PLT engages participants in the creative process as artists, patrons, students and teachers.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Through volunteer opportunities, outreach programs, classes and performances, PLT is committed to inspire and challenge artists and audiences with diverse and stimulating programs of the highest standard of excellence. Housed within the Pensacola Cultural Center, PLT serves as a beacon of art and culture, extending far beyond the stage.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? Pensacolians often forget PLT owns the Pensacola Cultural Center and our vision is to keep driving a variety of art and culture in the building by partnering with other non-profits. As the community’s theatre, we strive to give back the same support that the community gives us.
Answers by:Ashley Simmons, Marketing Specialist

Pensacola MESS Hall
116 N. Tarragona St., pensacolamesshall.org
What inspired you to get started? An enthusiasm for inspiring others in the community to make discoveries about math, engineering and science.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We are motivated by the creativity of our visitors as they ask their own questions and explore the activities in ways we never even considered.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? The MESS Hall is a hands-on science center where visitors “mess around” to make their own discoveries about science, engineering and math.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are seeking to engage a larger portion of our community through new programming, including the first Gulf Coast Science Festival in March 2018. In addition, we are expanding programming for adults.
Answers by: Megan Pratt, Executive Director

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra
205 E. Zaragoza, pensacolasymphony.com
What inspired you to get started? The Orchestra was first formed in 1926 as a reaction to a visiting concert series. The founder, an immigrant named John Borjes, recognized the need for Pensacola to have an institution of its own that could develop local talent and also provide access to symphonic music for the entire community.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Music can be an incredible force for good. It can inspire, educate, entertain and enlighten. People sharing music with other people in meaningful ways and in a variety of settings enables access to these amazing benefits. PSO exists to create these meaningful experiences and musical opportunities that connect our community.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? In our 92nd season, the Orchestra is fully staffed with professional musicians from around the region who are hired for a range of services in concerts and around the community. Many people travel great distances to make music in Pensacola. They teach, perform, promote and enliven our community through music.What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? When we build relationships through musical experiences, we demonstrate the benefits of music. We are committed to expanding our services to make them available to everyone in this community. In stating that desire, we are pledging to secure the necessary support and leadership that our ambition requires.
Answers by: Bret Barrow, Executive Director

Santa Rosa Island Authority
1 Via de Luna Dr., sria-fla.com
What inspired you to get started? The State of Florida, which established the Santa Rosa Island Authority in 1947.Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Our staff is motivated to keep Pensacola Beach a natural-resource treasure that welcomes island residents home, businesses’ patrons and visitors to a pristine vacation paradise.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? We are an extension of county government overseeing Pensacola Beach, approximately eight miles of beautiful Santa Rosa Island, to ensure federal, state and county ordinances are observed to preserve and maintain our part of the island so that it can be enjoyed well into the future.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? The Santa Rosa Island Authority’s continuous goal is to protect our beautiful beach, its natural resources, manage growth and provide eco/family friendly tourism and entertainment.
Answers by: Cheryle Dill, HR/Events Coordinator

The Southern Creative
creativesouthern.com
What inspired you to get started? I realized there was a need for a full-service creative agency, with multiple specialties ranging from photography and video production to branding and web design. The Southern Creative was born.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? Having the ability to work on so many fun and unique projects has really kept that initial spark burning. To have complete creative control really stimulates the idea of infinite possibilities.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? The Southern Creative is a full service creative agency specializing in made from scratch aesthetics. Our services include photography, video production, web design, branding, marketing, SEO and more.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? I just want to continue to grow in this great community and to be a well-known and trusted brand capable of bold and innovative messaging. Letting people in Pensacola and surrounding areas know that we are here and capable of helping their small business grow as well.
Answers by:Grant Tyson, Founder

UWF Historic Trust
120 Church St., historicpensacola.org
What inspired you to get started? The precursor to what is now known as the UWF Historic Trust was established in 1967. We are inspired by Pensacola’s rich and diverse heritage and remain committed to collecting, preserving, interpreting and sharing the history of Northwest Florida.
Now that you’re established, what motivates you to keep going? We are motivated by our enthusiasm to share Pensacola’s stories in ways that engage and educate our visitors—tourists and locals alike.
How would you describe your business to someone who’s never heard of it? Historic Pensacola, nestled within the footprints of the original Spanish and British forts, shares the stories of Pensacola’s rich heritage through museum exhibits, tours and engaging period-dressed living history interpreters.
What’s the next goal or project you want to see happen for you and your business? We are excited that the Pensacola Museum of Art is now part of the UWF Historic Trust, which enables us to provide the museum greater stability. This also increases our role as the leader in arts and cultural heritage tourism in the area.
Answers by: Jeff Nall, Chief Community Officer